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Ask the Shelter: Are some dog breeds inherently 'dangerous'?

Jennifer Vanderau
Published 11:31 a.m. ET June 22, 2018

Chloe has been at the shelter since October 2017 when she was found running along the road near the shelter. Chloe knows sit, shake, down, and speak. She is a sweet, 6-year-old girl that will make someone a wonderful companion. Because of her size and age, we recommend a home with children older than 8. We’re also looking for a home with no other pets for Chloe.(Photo11: Courtesy photo)

A: Oh, the dangerous breed myth. If there’s one thing I’ve learned working at the shelter for the last 17 (wow!) years, it’s that every single dog, regardless of the breed, has a different personality.

I have seen wonderful, lap-baby Rottweilers and I’ve seen not-so-nice Rotts. I’ve seen cuddle-bug Chihuahuas and I’ve seen quite snappy Chihuahuas. Because of that I don’t like to make blanket statements such as “all Dobermans are” a certain way. Sometimes it’s tough to tell whether an animal’s genetics play a part in his behavior or his environment is responsible.

Unfortunately, and sadly, a lot of aggressive tendencies in dogs have been taught to them by humans. A person can make any dog “mean” if they want to, but it breaks my heart to think anyone would ever want to do that. Sometimes, aggressive behavior can be from a genetic personality quirk in the dog and he’ll just “snap,” as I’ve heard people say. However, bad behaviors can also be bred into a dog, especially by someone who doesn’t take the time to understand what’s really involved in breeding. It’s tough to tell.

Sadly, you’ve heard the term “dangerous dog” because there are people in the world who see dogs as commodities and ways to make money, who care very little about the welfare of the animal. Sometimes there are certain breeds that are better for someone with nefarious intentions and they get a bad reputation. Because of this, there can be certain restrictions placed on an entire breed, regardless of the temperament of individual dogs.

The world can be a tough place for our canine friends, but the more we, as animal-lovers, learn and spread the word about our furry friends, the better we can make their lives.

Q: Last year as I started mowing my lawn again, I came across a nest of baby bunnies. Despite my best efforts to save them, I couldn’t. With the advent of spring this year, what are your suggestions if this happens again?

A: If it’s at all possible, leave the animals where they are discovered and don’t touch them. If the mother is living, she will return to the nest. Wild animals really are best left on their own and mothers who have a nest of babies instinctively know the location. Even if you’ve touched them, mom will come back. Keep an eye on the nest to make sure the mother does return in a short time (no longer than a day or two). If the mother doesn’t return or the animals are injured, you would need to contact a wildlife rehabilitator to work with you to determine the best and safest course of action for you and the animals. Check out the Pennsylvania Association of Wildlife Rehabilitators website at www.pawr.com for more information. And thank you so much for being a true animal-lover and willing to help all animals in need.

Ask the Shelter is a weekly feature aimed at pet education. If you have a question, contact Jennifer Vanderau, director of communications for the Cumberland Valley Animal Shelter, at cvascomm@cvas-pets.org or 263-5791.